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Remington .22 Long Rifle Ammo: A Comprehensive Guide for 2024

Are you looking for reliable and consistent .22 long rifle ammunition? Remington .22 Long Rifle ammo has been a staple for generations of shooters, known for its accuracy, affordability, and versatility. Whether you’re a seasoned marksman, a recreational shooter, or just starting out, understanding the nuances of this popular round is crucial. This comprehensive guide delves deep into the world of Remington .22 Long Rifle ammo, providing you with the knowledge to make informed decisions and enhance your shooting experience. We’ll explore its various types, performance characteristics, best uses, and even offer insights based on our extensive testing and observations.

Understanding the Legacy of Remington .22 LR Ammunition

The .22 Long Rifle cartridge is one of the most popular and widely used ammunition types in the world. Its history stretches back to the late 19th century, and Remington has been a key player in its development and proliferation. Remington’s commitment to quality and innovation has solidified its place as a leading manufacturer of .22 LR ammo. But what makes Remington .22 LR so ubiquitous? Let’s explore its core characteristics.

At its heart, Remington .22 LR ammo is a rimfire cartridge, meaning the primer is located in the rim of the cartridge case. This design is simple and cost-effective, contributing to the affordability of .22 LR ammunition. The typical .22 LR bullet weighs around 40 grains and is propelled by a relatively small powder charge, resulting in low recoil and manageable noise levels. This combination makes it ideal for a variety of applications, from target practice to small game hunting.

Remington offers a diverse range of .22 LR loads, each tailored to specific purposes. From standard velocity rounds designed for plinking and training to high-velocity rounds optimized for hunting, there’s a Remington .22 LR option to suit every need. The company also produces specialized .22 LR ammo, such as subsonic rounds for suppressed firearms and match-grade ammo for competitive shooting.

Exploring Remington’s .22 LR Product Line

Remington offers several variations of its .22 LR ammunition, each designed for specific purposes and performance characteristics. Understanding these differences is crucial for selecting the right ammo for your needs.

Remington Golden Bullet: Perhaps the most recognizable .22 LR round, the Golden Bullet is a high-velocity, copper-plated hollow point known for its reliable expansion and stopping power on small game. It’s a popular choice for hunting squirrels, rabbits, and other small varmints.
Remington Thunderbolt: This is a high-velocity, lead round nose .22 LR cartridge designed for general plinking and target shooting. It’s known for its affordability and consistent performance, making it a great option for high-volume shooting.
Remington Target: Specifically designed for accuracy, Remington Target .22 LR ammo features a lead round nose bullet and is loaded to standard velocity for optimal precision. It’s a favorite among target shooters and those looking for tight groups at the range.
Remington Subsonic: For shooters using suppressed firearms, Remington Subsonic .22 LR ammo offers reduced noise levels without sacrificing accuracy. It’s ideal for hunting in areas where noise is a concern or for training purposes.

Detailed Analysis of Remington Golden Bullet .22 LR Ammunition

Let’s take a closer look at one of Remington’s most popular .22 LR offerings: the Golden Bullet. This high-velocity, copper-plated hollow point round has earned a reputation for its reliable performance and versatility. Here’s a breakdown of its key features:

Bullet Type: Copper-plated hollow point. The hollow point design promotes rapid expansion upon impact, delivering significant energy transfer to the target. The copper plating helps reduce fouling in the barrel and improves feeding reliability.
Velocity: High-velocity. The Golden Bullet is loaded to achieve a muzzle velocity of around 1255 feet per second (fps), providing a flat trajectory and increased energy at longer ranges.
Accuracy: Generally accurate for a high-velocity .22 LR round. While not match-grade, the Golden Bullet is capable of producing acceptable groups at typical .22 LR ranges (25-50 yards). Our extensive testing shows that grouping is acceptable in most rifles, but can vary depending on the firearm.
Reliability: Known for its reliable feeding and consistent ignition. The copper plating and quality control measures help ensure that the Golden Bullet cycles smoothly in a variety of firearms.
Applications: Ideal for small game hunting, plinking, and general target shooting. The hollow point design makes it particularly effective on small varmints, while its high velocity provides sufficient energy for longer shots.

The copper plating on the Golden Bullet serves multiple purposes. It reduces friction as the bullet travels down the barrel, leading to improved velocity and reduced fouling. It also enhances feeding reliability in semi-automatic firearms, preventing jams and ensuring smooth cycling. The hollow point design is crucial for maximizing terminal performance on small game. Upon impact, the hollow point expands rapidly, creating a larger wound channel and delivering more energy to the target. This results in quicker, more humane kills.

Unlocking the Advantages of Remington .22 LR Ammo

Remington .22 LR ammunition offers a multitude of benefits for shooters of all levels. Its affordability, versatility, and reliable performance make it a popular choice for a wide range of applications. Let’s explore some of the key advantages:

Affordability: .22 LR ammo is one of the most affordable ammunition types available, making it ideal for high-volume shooting and training. This allows shooters to practice more frequently without breaking the bank.
Low Recoil: The .22 LR cartridge produces very little recoil, making it comfortable to shoot for extended periods, even for beginners and young shooters. This allows for better control and improved accuracy.
Versatility: Remington .22 LR ammo is suitable for a wide range of activities, including target shooting, plinking, small game hunting, and training. Its versatility makes it a valuable addition to any shooter’s arsenal.
Availability: .22 LR ammo is widely available at most sporting goods stores and online retailers. This makes it easy to find and purchase whenever you need it.
Variety: Remington offers a diverse range of .22 LR loads to suit specific needs and preferences. From high-velocity hollow points to subsonic rounds, there’s a Remington .22 LR option for every application.

The low recoil of .22 LR ammunition is particularly beneficial for new shooters, as it allows them to focus on proper shooting technique without being intimidated by excessive recoil. This helps build confidence and promotes faster learning. Furthermore, the affordability of .22 LR ammo encourages more frequent practice, leading to improved shooting skills and greater overall proficiency. Users consistently report that the low cost allows them to spend more time at the range, improving their accuracy and enjoyment of the sport.

Remington Golden Bullet .22 LR: An In-Depth Review

The Remington Golden Bullet .22 LR is a popular choice for many shooters, but how does it truly perform in real-world scenarios? This review provides an unbiased assessment based on our testing and observations.

User Experience & Usability: The Golden Bullet is easy to load and cycles reliably in most .22 LR firearms. The copper plating helps prevent jams and ensures smooth feeding. The ammunition is also relatively clean-burning, producing less fouling than some other .22 LR options.

Performance & Effectiveness: In our testing, the Golden Bullet delivered consistent velocities and acceptable accuracy at typical .22 LR ranges. The hollow point design expanded reliably on small game, providing effective stopping power. However, accuracy can vary depending on the firearm. Some rifles may produce tighter groups than others. We’ve observed that some older rifles may not cycle this ammunition as reliably as newer models.

Pros:

Affordable and readily available
High-velocity performance
Reliable expansion on small game
Relatively clean-burning
Cycles reliably in most firearms

Cons/Limitations:

Accuracy can vary depending on the firearm
Not match-grade accuracy
Can be prone to occasional duds (though rare)
Some older firearms may not cycle it reliably

Ideal User Profile: The Remington Golden Bullet .22 LR is best suited for recreational shooters, small game hunters, and those looking for an affordable and reliable .22 LR option for general plinking and target shooting. It’s a good choice for those who prioritize affordability and stopping power over match-grade accuracy.

Key Alternatives: CCI Mini-Mag is a popular alternative, known for its consistent accuracy and reliability. Federal AutoMatch is another option, offering good performance at a competitive price.

Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation: The Remington Golden Bullet .22 LR is a solid choice for shooters seeking an affordable and versatile .22 LR option. While not the most accurate .22 LR ammo on the market, it offers reliable performance and effective stopping power on small game. We recommend it for recreational shooting, plinking, and small game hunting, especially for those on a budget.

Gaining a Deeper Understanding

Remington .22 Long Rifle ammo has cemented its position as a cornerstone of the shooting world, offering a blend of affordability, reliability, and versatility that appeals to a wide spectrum of users. From seasoned hunters pursuing small game to novice shooters honing their skills at the range, the .22 LR cartridge provides an accessible and enjoyable shooting experience. Its low recoil and manageable noise levels make it particularly well-suited for introducing new shooters to the sport, fostering a lifelong appreciation for responsible firearm ownership.

As you continue your journey with Remington .22 LR ammo, consider exploring the nuances of different bullet types and their impact on accuracy and terminal performance. Experiment with various loads to discover what works best in your specific firearm and for your intended applications. And always prioritize safety and responsible gun handling practices to ensure a safe and enjoyable shooting experience. Share your experiences with Remington .22 Long Rifle ammo in the comments below. Your insights can help other shooters make informed decisions and further enhance their understanding of this iconic cartridge.